Danica returns to IndyCar, welcomes expectations

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) - Danica Patrick is getting used to swapping back and forth between NASCAR and IndyCar.

She makes smooth transitions between the different terminology and technology. She has no trouble adjusting to the diverse feel between the peppy and sophisticated open-wheel cars and the bulky and often testy stock cars. She even balances questions about the challenges both cars provide, trying hard not to offend anyone in either series.

She's also well versed in one, all-important aspect: Expectations.

As Patrick makes the move from NASCAR's Nationwide Series to the IndyCar season opener for the second time in as many years, she welcomes the high aspirations that come with returning to her primary racing career.

She says she expects to “run up front every weekend.”